Reelfoot Lake, Tennessee
Events & Area Attractions
Reelfoot Lake is more than great fishing — it's one of the most unique natural and cultural destinations in the Mid-South.
There's Always Something to See and Do
Whether you're here for a week of fishing or a long weekend getaway, Reelfoot Lake and the surrounding area offer a wealth of experiences beyond the water. From world-famous eagle watching tours to local festivals, state park trails, and nearby Tennessee towns, there's no shortage of things to fill your days. Southshore Resort is your home base for all of it.
(731) 538-2467
Murder Mystery Dinner Show
"Cafe Murder"
Rosemary Saint-John is a loud, annoying hypochondriac convinced she is allergic to water. Celebrating her birthday at a restaurant with her four kooky sisters — a hippie, a valley girl, a trucker, and a banker — Rosemary makes enemies with everyone around her.
When she disappears and is presumed murdered, you become the only objective witness. Was it one of her sisters? The self-taught detective? The passionate French chef? The polite maître d'? The sarcastic waiter? Cast your vote — no one is above suspicion in this delightful dinner theatre murder mystery!
Reelfoot Lake 55th Annual Arts & Crafts Festival
One of West Tennessee's most beloved traditions, the Reelfoot Lake Arts & Crafts Festival draws over 300 vendors from across the country to the shores of Reelfoot Lake every first weekend of October. Whether you're hunting for handmade treasures, unique artwork, or one-of-a-kind gifts, you'll find it here.
The festival grounds come alive with artisans, food trucks, and live entertainment — making it a perfect fall weekend getaway. Stay at Southshore Resort and walk right into the action.
Callmakers & Collectors Association of America Festival
Celebrate Reelfoot's rich waterfowl heritage right here at Southshore Resort. The annual Callmakers and Collectors Gathering brings together duck hunting enthusiasts, craftsmen, and collectors from across the country for two days of buying, selling, and trading.
Browse tables filled with vintage calls, decoys, and sportsman memorabilia, then watch the action unfold at the CCAA Working Duck Call Contest. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just discovering the tradition, this is a one-of-a-kind event in the heart of duck hunting country.
1st Annual Boat House Cruise In
The Boat House Restaurant · Reelfoot Lake
Get ready to be part of the most scenic Cruise-In Car Show around! Whether you're rolling in a classic car, custom truck, motorcycle, Jeep, hot rod, or any unique ride you'd like to show off — all vehicles are welcome and there's no entry fee.
Participants are welcome to come and go throughout the day. Bring the whole family, enjoy the incredible lake views from our deck, and take advantage of food & drink specials all day long. The Boat House Crew will vote for Best of Show — the winner takes home a plaque and a dinner at The Boat House Restaurant!
Area Attractions
Eagle Watching Tours
Reelfoot Lake is one of the premier bald eagle watching destinations in the eastern United States. Each winter, hundreds of bald eagles migrate to the lake to feed on fish in the open water. Reelfoot Lake State Park offers guided eagle watching tours from December through March — a bucket-list experience for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Reelfoot Lake State Park
The state park surrounds much of the lake and offers hiking trails, a nature center, picnic areas, and interpretive programs about the lake's unique geological history. The park's boardwalk trails wind through flooded timber and cypress stands — stunning in any season.
Scenic Boat Tours
Take a guided boat tour through the cypress timber and open waters of Reelfoot Lake. Tours highlight the lake's wildlife, history, and natural beauty — great for families, non-anglers, and anyone who wants to experience the lake from the water without a fishing rod in hand.
Bird Watching
Beyond eagles, Reelfoot Lake is a birder's paradise. The lake sits on the Mississippi Flyway and hosts an extraordinary variety of migratory and resident species — herons, egrets, osprey, pelicans, wood ducks, and dozens of songbird species. Bring your binoculars.
Tiptonville & Lake County
The nearby town of Tiptonville offers local dining, shops, and a friendly small-town atmosphere. Lake County is rich in history — from the New Madrid earthquake legacy to Civil War sites and local heritage museums worth exploring during your stay.
Photography & Nature Walks
Reelfoot Lake is one of the most photogenic places in Tennessee. The ancient cypress trees, mirror-flat water, dramatic sunrises, and abundant wildlife make it a favorite destination for photographers. The park's trails and boardwalks offer easy access to stunning natural scenery.
Annual Events
The Reelfoot Lake area hosts several annual events that draw visitors from across the region. Check with Reelfoot Lake State Park and Lake County tourism for current schedules.
Eagle Festival
January – FebruaryA celebration of the bald eagle migration with guided tours, photography workshops, and educational programs at the state park.
Reelfoot Lake Fishing Tournaments
Spring & FallCompetitive crappie and bass tournaments draw anglers from across the region. Great atmosphere even if you're not competing.
Autumn Colors & Fall Migration
October – NovemberThe cypress trees turn gold and rust in fall while waterfowl begin their migration south — one of the most beautiful times to visit the lake.
Make Southshore Your Home Base
Stay with us and explore everything Reelfoot Lake has to offer. Call to check availability or ask about what's happening during your visit.